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Tick Borne Encephalitis

Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE) Vaccine – Protect Your Brain, Protect Your Trip

What is Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE)?

Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE) is a viral infection that affects the brain and spinal cord (central nervous system). It is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected ticks, and occasionally via unpasteurised dairy products from infected animals.

Tick-Borne Encephalitis is endemic in parts of Central, Eastern, and Northern Europe, as well as Russia and parts of Asia. Popular travel destinations where Tick-Borne Encephalitis is a risk include:

Austria, Germany, Switzerland
Poland, Czech Republic, Slovenia
The Baltics (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania)
Sweden, Finland, and other forested areas in Scandinavia

Why is Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE) Serious?

Tick-Borne Encephalitis can cause mild flu-like symptoms, but in some cases, the virus can progress to serious complications such as:

Meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain)
Encephalitis (brain inflammation)
Paralysis, seizures, or long-term neurological damage

There is no specific treatment or cure for Tick-Borne Encephalitis once infected, which is why prevention through vaccination is essential.

Who Should Get the Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE) Vaccine?

The vaccine is recommended for:

Travellers to rural or forested areas in Tick-Borne Encephalitis-risk countries, particularly during spring and summer when ticks are most active
Hikers, campers, cyclists, and nature walkers
People working outdoors, such as forestry workers or military personnel
Anyone staying in endemic areas for longer than 4 weeks, or those planning repeated travel to affected regions

Tick-Borne Encephalitis Vaccine Schedule

The Tick-Borne Encephalitis vaccine is a course of 2 or 3 doses, depending on the level of protection needed:

Standard schedule:
- 1st dose
- 2nd dose – 1 to 3 months after the first
- 3rd dose – 5 to 12 months after the second (for long-term protection)
Booster: Required every 3 to 5 years if ongoing risk remains
Accelerated schedules may be available if you're travelling at short notice — speak to our clinicians for personalised advice.

Is the Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE) Vaccine Safe?

Yes. The Tick-Borne Encephalitis vaccine is well-tolerated with a strong safety record. Side effects are usually mild and may include:

Soreness or redness at the injection site
Mild fever, fatigue, or headache

Serious side effects are extremely rare.

Why Choose Ready Health Standish for Your Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE) Vaccine?

At Ready Health Clinic Standish, we offer:

Expert travel health consultations
Access to the full course of Tick-Borne Encephalitis vaccination
Quick, convenient appointments including evenings and weekends
Advice on other essential travel vaccines (e.g. Rabies, Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Japanese Encephalitis)

Our clinic is CQC-registered, and all vaccinations are delivered by experienced healthcare professionals in a clean, modern setting.

Book Now to Stay Protected

Planning a trip to Europe’s beautiful outdoors? Don’t risk your health — book your Tick-Borne Encephalitis vaccine today with Ready Health Standish and travel safely.

📞 Call us on 01257 676001
🌐 Visit www.readyhealth.co.uk
📍 Ready Health Clinic, Standish – Your trusted local travel vaccine clinic

Tick Borne Encephalitis FAQs

Tick-Borne Encephalitis is a viral infection spread by tick bites, mainly found in forested areas of Europe and parts of Asia. It can cause inflammation of the brain and spinal cord, sometimes resulting in serious neurological complications.

Tick-Borne Encephalitis is found in many popular travel destinations, including:Austria, Germany, SwitzerlandEstonia, Latvia, Lithuania (Baltic states)Sweden, Norway, FinlandPoland, Czech Republic, Hungary, RussiaRisk is highest in wooded, grassy, and rural areas, especially between spring and early autumn.

The vaccine is recommended for:Travellers planning hiking, camping, cycling, or outdoor activities in Tick-Borne Encephalitis-endemic regionsPeople staying in rural or forested areas for more than a few weeksChildren and adults at risk of tick exposureFrequent travellers to affected regions

The full course involves 3 doses:1st dose – initial protection2nd dose – 1 to 3 months later3rd dose – 5 to 12 months after the second (for long-term protection)For short-notice travel, an accelerated schedule may be available.

After completing the full 3-dose course, protection typically lasts:At least 3 yearsBooster doses are recommended every 3 to 5 years for continued protection

Yes, the Tick-Borne Encephalitis vaccine is clinically proven to be safe and effective. Side effects are usually mild and may include:Pain or redness at the injection siteMild fever or fatigue Serious side effects are very rare.

Yes. The Tick-Borne Encephalitis vaccine is licensed for children as young as 1 year old, and dosing is adjusted based on age. At Ready Health Standish, we provide age-appropriate vaccinations in a safe, friendly environment.

Yes. The vaccine reduces your risk but does not guarantee 100% protection. Continue to:Wear long sleeves and trousers in tick-prone areasUse insect repellents containing DEETCheck your body and clothing for ticks after outdoor activities

The Tick-Borne Encephalitis vaccine can be given during pregnancy or breastfeeding if the risk of exposure is high. A consultation with one of our clinicians at Ready Health Standish will help determine what's best for you.

Booking is simple:Online via our websiteCall us directlyOr visit the clinic to speak to our friendly team We offer flexible appointments, including evenings and weekends, to suit your schedule.